BA in Music & Performance

A Bachelor of Arts in Music from MSU Moorhead’s School of Performing Arts is a generally focused degree with emphases in General Music or Music Performance, giving you a great deal of flexibility to pursue your other passions, whether it’s another major, study abroad or digging deeper into a specific area of music. You will be exposed to performance and music history, contemporary styles and cutting-edge technology. Our professional faculty represent a wide range of musical styles and are committed to helping you develop your creativity and talent into a career in the arts.

The School of Performing Arts faculty features impressive artistic and scholarly credentials, with an emphasis on active professional performance, ongoing research and a strong commitment to teaching. Faculty members fill several principal chair positions with the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony, regularly perform with the Fargo-Moorhead Opera company, provide solo recitals and concerts and play in many local jazz/commercial bands.

Faculty provide individual lessons, coaching and advising, as well as performance and networking opportunities, professional connections and the chance to attend national and regional conferences and festivals. Our faculty value student success and guide you into your future as a musician and professional. Whether you want to be a private music teacher, a studio musician or pursue a graduate degree, our faculty will help you get there.

The School of Performing Arts facilities include Fox Recital Hall, Glasrud Auditorium, Hansen Theatre, Gaede Stage, along with 25 private practice rooms and access to three recording studios. As a student in the School of Performing Arts, you’ll have 24-hour access to the building in order to practice when it fits your schedule.

Joining one of MSUM’s 11 vocal and instrumental ensembles will broadly expand your performance repertoire and help you grow your skills as a performer. Music students have opportunities to perform in ensemble concerts, in chamber groups, and in solo recitals, including monthly department recitals.

The MSUM Music program is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music. Accreditation assures the highest quality music program, professional training as a musician and a commitment to student success.

Learning Opportunities Outside the Classroom

MSUM’s Music program offers a unique and wide selection of learning opportunities to give you a well-rounded educational experience. You will gain professional-level experiences performing live in front of captive audiences, recording music for live events or participating in theatre productions.